Lymphedema physical therapy

Lymphedema refers to the chronic swelling of a body part. Usually occurring within the arm or leg, it can also appear in the head/neck, breast or genitals following cancer treatments. The swelling is caused by the buildup of fluid due to the lymphatic system not working efficiently.

What triggers lymphedema?

• Infection, cellulitis (a potentially serious bacterial skin infection)
• Inherited condition that could be present at birth or develop later in life
• Obesity
• Radiation treatments
• Surgical procedures, especially cancer-related
• Traumatic injury
• Venous insufficiency (a condition in which veins don't send blood back to the heart correctly)

Symptoms of lymphedema

• Difficulty moving due to swelling
• Heaviness or discomfort in the swollen area
• Repeated infections, wounds
• Skin that is hard or thick
• Mild to disfiguring swelling that does not improve after elevating the affected area

Lymphedema physical therapy offers relief

Lymphedema physical therapy focuses on relieving the swelling that occurs when lymphatic fluid begins to pool. This treatment option can also help to prevent additional swelling while speeding your recovery.

Many Aurora locations offer lymphedema physical therapy. Specially trained physical and occupational therapists have extensive hands-on experience to successfully manage the effects of lymphedema.

What to expect from lymphedema physical therapy

Based on your initial visit, your physical or occupational therapist will determine the right course of care for you to experience maximum relief, including:

• Compression garment recommendations
• Compression pump to soften firm tissue and move fluid
• Education for managing your symptoms
• Home exercises to soften tissue, move fluid and increase strength and range of motion
• Manual lymphatic drainage (massage-type treatment) to move lymphatic fluid
• Multi-layer compression bandaging for reducing fluid build-up

Do you need a prescription?

Some insurance plans, including Medicare and Medicaid, may require a prescription to begin physical therapy treatment. If you’re not sure, please ask us for assistance.

Contact us

Contact us if you have any questions about lymphedema physical therapy.